A review by hannahmariebrankley
The Honey Witch by Sydney J. Shields

challenging dark emotional funny inspiring lighthearted mysterious fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

This is another highly anticipated read for 2024 and yet another where I did not expect the direction it went in!

“Marigold Claude, the new Honey Witch of Innisfree, can never find true love. When sceptical Lottie Burke arrives, Marigold is determined to prove magic is real. As they grow closer, Marigold faces a dark force threatening her home, risking her magic and her heart. A sweet debut novel of magic, hope, and love overcoming all.”

This is very much Bridgerton meets fantasy with cottagecore vibes. I read this in a day and found it just a nice cosy book.

It’s descriptive and captures what magic can be and the darker side of witchcraft. I love how Sydney J. Shields sets her scenes. I want to holiday at Innisfree.

The only downside was that I didn’t fully connect with the main character, Marigold. Which is ok, not every main character is going to be likeable. I just found that Marigold, although not fully happy at home because she felt she couldn’t be herself, was very quick to decide whether someone was, almost, worth her time or not. And I found she developed her closer relationships with others through someone else or with someone else’s influence. 3.5 stars.